ter a glance, increased perceptibly his show of
respect toward the city man; the latter treated the Doctor with
civility, but talked in an ex-cathedra way. He understood the case and
had no question as to its treatment. As for Dr. Balsam, his manner was
the same to both, and had not changed a particle. He said not a word
except to ask questions as to symptoms and the treatment that had been
followed. The Doctor's face changed during the recital, and when it was
ended his expression was one of deep thoughtfulness.

The consultation ended, they all went into the sick-room, Dr. Memberly,
the specialist, first, the young doctor next, and Dr. Balsam last. Dr.
Memberly addressed the nurse, and Dr. Locaman followed him like his
shadow, enforcing his words and copying insensibly his manner. Dr.
Balsam walked over to the bedside, and leaning over, took the patient's
thin, wan hand.

"My dear, I am Dr. Balsam. Do you remember me?"

She glanced at him, at first languidly, then with more interest, and
then, as recollection returned to her, with a faint smile.

"Now we must get well."

Again she smiled faintly.

The Doctor drew up a chair, and, without speaking further, began to
stroke her hand, his eyes resting on her face.

One who had seen the old physician before he entered that house could
scarcely have known him as the same man who sat by the bed holding the
hand of the wan figure lying so placid before him. At a distance he
appeared a plain countryman; on nearer view his eyes and mouth and set
chin gave him a look of unexpected determination. When he entered a
sick-room he was like a king coming to his own. He took command and
fought disease as an arch-enemy. So now.

Dr. Memberly came to the bedside and began to talk in a low,
professional tone. Lois shut her eyes, but her fingers closed slightly
on Dr. Balsam's hand.

"The medicine appears to have quieted her somewhat. I have directed the
nurse to continue it," observed Dr. Memberly.

"Quite so. By all means continue it," assented Dr. Locaman. "She is
decidedly quieter."

Dr. Balsam's head inclined just enough to show that he heard him, and he
went on stroking her hand.

"Is there anything you would suggest further than has already been
done?" inquired the city physician of Dr. Balsam.

"No. I think not."

"I must catch the 4:30 train," said the former to the younger man.
"Doctor, will you drive me down to the station?"

"Yes, certainly. With pleasure."